Dr Abdul Hamid Bashir, a distinguished Islamic scholar and community leader, was recently named a 2025 Eisner Prize Fellow-one of the most prestigious honours recognising trailblasers advancing intergenerational work.His project with Eisner Prize Fellowship is named "KinnConnect Circles", a new, year-long pilot programme designed to strengthen emotional bonds, cultural identity, eschew violence and extremism and system navigation among Kinship/Grandfamilies.It introduces a structured model for intergenerational healing and learning that blends cultural storytelling, peer mentoring, wellness support, and digital empowerment.Currently based in the United States, Dr Bashir serves as the resident scholar at Markazul Quran, a subsidiary of the West African Community Centre (WAFCOM) in Philadelphia.In this capacity, he delivers public lectures, conducts youth mentorship, provides Islamic legal consultation, and trains emerging faith leaders.
His Friday sermons, workshops, and after-school programmes are widely attended by a diverse audience and praised for their clarity, balance, and contemporary relevance.Holding a Ph.D.
in Islamic Studies, from Franco-Arab International Private University and also a Diploma in Basic Education from the University of Cape Coast, Dr Bashir specialises in Quranic exegesis.
His scholarship focuses on reclaiming authentic Islamic narratives from original and early sources to challenge theological distortions especially used by radical groups.Beyond the mosque, Dr Bashir is deeply engaged in civic and interfaith initiatives.
